(2) Interview with Retired Colonel, Cassie Barlow

From left: Wright State Provost S. Narayanan, Aerospace Professional Development Center Executive Director Cassie Barlow, state Sen. Chris Widener, Wright State Applied Research Corporation CEO Dennis Andersh and Wright State board member Michael Bridges at the grand opening of the APDC Jan. 16, Photo via (WSU)

Colonel Cassie Barlow has recently become Executive Director of the Wright State University Aerospace Professional Development Center and the Advanced Technical Intelligence Center after serving in the United States Air Force for over 26 years.

She commanded one of the largest air base wings in the Air Force with more than 5,000 Air Force military, civilian, and contractor employees. The 88th Air Base Wing, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio is home to more than 27,000 employees and is the largest single-site employer in the state of Ohio. Attributing to numerous credentials, Colonel Barlow is highly decorated with twelve prestigious military awards.

Today, her work entails fostering the development of new talent and transitioning veterans in Dayton. In this interview, Colonel Barlow discusses her value for service and helping people. In addition, she lends her expertise on mentorship and support to spur the growth of women in leadership.

Lean In Dayton: Colonel Barlow, You've recently become Executive Director of the Center for Workforce Development at Wright State University and The Advanced Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC) after from active retiring active duty with the U.S. Air Force as Colonel. How did this new role come about?

Colonel Cassie Barlow: It has been a real honor for myself and my family to settle here in Dayton. I love the community and I can’t think of a better role than to help people develop in the career they are passionate about. This position at Wright State has been a real blessing for me. I have been able to continue my passion of helping people formulate their perfect development path. Additionally, I have been very lucky to be able to work with many veterans who are transitioning from their military careers.

Lean In Dayton: You commanded one of the largest air base wings in the Air Force with more than 5,000 Air Force military, civilian, and contractor employees. What was this experience like?

Colonel Cassie Barlow: Being the commander at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base was a true honor. I was blessed with being able to command multiple times and I loved the opportunity to command at WPAFB. Wright-Patterson is an amazing community made up of many amazing Americans who are passionate about serving their country. I was proud to serve right next to all of these professionals.

Lean In Dayton: What led to your decision to pursue a career in the United States Air Force?

Colonel Cassie Barlow: I joined the Air Force many years ago to get an education and over time I fell in love with the opportunity to serve my country and my fellow serviceman and women. My first tour quickly turned into 26 years that absolutely flew by because I was having so much fun and meeting so many amazing people.